The lower South Coast is one of the most popular holiday destinations in South Africa, and it's no wonder. The area stretching from the Umkomaas River to Port Edward near the Wild Coast Sun Casino is a subtropical paradise of beautiful beaches and coastal forests dotted with vibrant holiday towns.
Just a short, scenic, one-hour drive from Durban and you're into a region which offers the best in seaside resort facilities and activities catering for a wide range of interests and budgets.
Water activities are the prime attraction, with some of the most alluring beaches, rivers and lagoons found anywhere in the country. You can surf the waves, fish off the rocks, explore rocky outcrops and indigenous coastal forests, gather shells or simply relax on the golden sand.
Sit on top of the cliffs above Glenmore Beach, watching the waves crash, creating an awesome swirl of foam and wild water. Take a night walk on these same rocks to catch a glimpse of the resident rock dassie families. The smooth, jet-black rocks here are called rubbing rocks and folklore says they carry the blessing and good luck of the whales that caressed them in days gone by.
On a rainy day, drive down to the Wild Coast Sun casino for some reckless extravagance and indoor action and perhaps the Dream Machine, a one-armed bandit which could make your lucky day.
Pieces of antique Ming vases have been found on Port Edward beach, remnants of the São João, which was wrecked there in 1552. The wreck holds a deep fascination for the locals because of its still undiscovered treasures.
Fossil beds on nearby Trafalgar Beach are an ecological treasure along with the Umtamvuna Nature Reserve, which is home to a large breeding colony of Cape vultures.
The South Coast is also a birder's paradise, with 380 species recorded.
An interesting meander is set along the Umtamvuna Reserve among coffee, macadamia nut and banana plantations.
The Riverbend Crocodile Farm in Southbroom, Crocworld near Scottburgh and Old Macdonald's farm in Shelley Beach attract hundreds of little people, as does the Banana Express.
Ocean activities are well organised with angling, scuba diving, whale watching and motorised water sports.
- Pick up a free copy of Southern Explorer at tourism information offices countrywide or contact Hibiscus Coast Tourism Margate (039) 212 2322/3/4 or www.sunnymargate.com